It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our founder and Managing Director, David Roberts, aged 81, who peacefully passed away at home on Monday, 18th May 2026.
Dave was the driving force behind D A Roberts, building the company from the ground up with an unwavering customer-first approach. Alongside his son Paul and in memory of his two late sons, Nigel and Ian, he nurtured the business into a cornerstone of the local community. Through his leadership, the company not only delivered millions of litres of fuel to homes and businesses across the area but also provided meaningful employment to generations of local people.
Known for his commitment to fairness and value, Dave championed offering some of the cheapest forecourt prices in the UK. This dedication to fair pricing earned the attention of national media, reflecting his desire to serve the community with honesty and integrity. Beyond his business achievements, Dave was admired for his loyalty, hard work, and dedication—not only to his staff and customers but to the principles he lived by every day.
Dave’s legacy will be remembered through the company he built, the countless people he employed and supported, and the community he cared for deeply. His warmth, generosity, and steadfast commitment have left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Pat, his son Paul, and the wider family, who together share in the sorrow of this loss. Our thoughts are also with the staff at D A Roberts during this difficult time.
A funeral service will be held at St Alkmund’s Church, Whitchurch, on Thursday, 28th May at midday. As a mark of respect, the fuel delivery and garage workshop aspects of the business will be closed on the day of the funeral, while the forecourt will remain open as usual.
David Roberts will be remembered not only as a successful businessman but as a devoted family man and a pillar of the community, whose impact will continue to be felt for years to come.